Colleges
🎓
Harvard UniversityCambridge, MA
Scholarships
💰
STEM Excellence Scholarship$$5,000
Majors
📘
Computer Science
$1,000 No Essay Scholarship

Scholarships for Single Parents

Explore single parent scholarships and education funding designed to support student parents. Discover eligibility, award types, deadlines, and expert tips to help you balance school and family while funding your education.

9 Active Scholarships Available
View Scholarships

Understanding Scholarships for Single Parents

Single parents face unique challenges as they pursue higher education while supporting their families. Scholarships designed specifically for single parents provide financial assistance to help alleviate some of the burdens. These scholarships are valuable resources that can ease tuition costs, textbooks, and other educational expenses.


Why Apply for a Single Parent Scholarship?

Single parent scholarships are tailored to recognize the perseverance and dedication of those juggling parenting responsibilities alongside their education. By applying for these scholarships, single parents can receive the support they need to invest in their education and secure a brighter future for themselves and their children.

Scholarships for Single Parents (9 Available)

Browse all scholarships in this category—featured partners highlighted at top.

All Single Parent Scholarships

Click any scholarship to view full details and application requirements.

Scholarship NameAward AmountDeadlineEligibilityActions
American Postdoctoral Research Leave Fellowship
$50,000Varies60+ min
View
American Doctoral Fellowship
$25,000Varies60+ min
View
Deblinger Family Scholarship
Min. GPA: 2.5
$10,000Varies60+ min
View
AAUW Career Development Grants
$8,000Varies60+ min
View
Helping Hands for Single Moms Scholarship
Min. GPA: 2.8
$5,000Varies30–60 min
View
Bruce and Marjorie Sundlun Scholarship
$2,000Varies—
View
The Julian Perez Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund
Min. GPA: 3
$1,000VariesNo essay required · 15–30 min
View
Custody X Change Single Parent Scholarship
$500Varies<15 min
View
Janet Lerner Membership Scholarship
VariesVaries—
View
View All Scholarship Categories

Financial & Time-Management Strategies for Single Parent Students

1. Build a Parent-Friendly Education Plan

Balancing school with parenting requires intentional planning:

  1. Create a weekly study schedule around childcare and work responsibilities
  2. Use online or hybrid classes when possible to increase flexibility
  3. Prioritize course loads that match life rhythms (e.g., evening classes, asynchronous courses)

Including this context in scholarship essays shows strategic thinking and resilience.

2. Combine Scholarships With Support Resources

Scholarships can reduce tuition costs, but additional resources help manage everyday life:

  1. Childcare subsidies or assistance programs
  2. Government and nonprofit family support services
  3. Campus family resource centers or parent student groups
  4. Work-study programs with flexible hours

Pairing scholarship funding with support services strengthens your financial and personal success plan.

3. Leverage Local & Community-Based Awards

Local organizations often offer smaller but meaningful awards exclusively for resident student parents:

  1. Community foundations
  2. Rotary or civic clubs
  3. Faith-based organizations
  4. Local business scholarships
  5. County or school district aid programs

How to Increase Your Chances of Winning

1. Start Early

Begin your scholarship search and applications at least 2–3 months before deadlines. This gives you time to craft compelling essays and gather strong recommendations.

2. Personalize Your Essays

Avoid generic responses. Share your unique story, challenges overcome, and specific goals. Show reviewers why you're the ideal candidate for this particular scholarship.

3. Apply to Multiple Scholarships

Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to 10–20+ scholarships to maximize your chances. Even smaller awards add up to significant funding.

4. Follow Instructions Carefully

Many applications are rejected for not following directions. Read requirements thoroughly, meet word counts, and submit all required materials by the deadline.

Common Application Requirements

Required

Personal Essay

500–1000 word essay explaining your background, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.

Required

Academic Transcripts

Official or unofficial transcripts showing your current GPA and coursework.

Often Required

Letters of Recommendation

1–3 letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors who can speak to your qualifications.

Sometimes

Additional Materials

Resume, portfolio, financial documentation (FAFSA), or proof of specific eligibility criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions

What eligibility criteria exist for single parent scholarships?
Eligibility criteria can vary, but usually require proof of single parent status, enrollment in or acceptance to a college or university, and sometimes a minimum GPA.
How can I find single parent scholarships?
You can find single parent scholarships through scholarship search engines, college financial aid offices, and nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting single parents.
What is the average amount awarded for single parent scholarships?
The average amount can vary significantly based on the scholarship provider, but many awards range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Are there any special application requirements?
Some scholarships may require essays, letters of recommendation, and proof of income or family circumstances. Make sure to read each scholarship’s requirements carefully.
When should I apply for single parent scholarships?
It's crucial to begin your scholarship search early, ideally several months before the academic year starts. Many scholarships have specific deadlines; check them in advance.